2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,488 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Cherry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Cherry, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-8 | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
